Finnish Defense Minister: Russia's Defeat Crucial to Contain China in Indo-Pacific

Finland's Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen emphasized that defeating Russia's invasion of Ukraine is crucial for containing China in the Indo-Pacific, warning that China is closely monitoring the West's resilience and resolve in opposing Russian aggression. Häkkänen praised President Donald Trump's sanctions on Russian oil companies as a strong sign of commitment but noted that a lack of determination could embolden China and potentially involve Russia in any future conflicts in the Indo-Pacific. He outlined a three-pronged strategy to end the war: tougher sanctions on Russia's economy and energy exports, increased military aid to Ukraine, and the use of long-range weapons to target drone and missile manufacturing. Additionally, Häkkänen highlighted that China's support for Russia is enabling the prolonged conflict and signaled that democratic countries, including Australia, must strengthen their support for Ukraine as a broader stand against violence and war. A separate analysis indicated that China prefers a weakened Russia focused on its own interests rather than a decisive victory or defeat in Ukraine, with Beijing aiming to leverage economic and resource advantages rather than territorial expansion. Meanwhile, Finnish and Kazakh leaders stressed the importance of achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace in Ukraine.